Erika and Jack are westward bound...

Today Erika and Jack are on their way home to Idaho and it was a tearful farewell. It has been so wonderful having them close for the past five months but my oh my has it passed so quickly. I know they're anxious to get back to their home -- I'm just going to miss them so much. The past couple days have been filled with such fun family times. The memories we've made will stay carved in my heart for many days to come. My prayer is that they have a safe and happy journey back to Idaho and that all will be safe and sound until we all meet again. At least I know I'll be seeing them in May to welcome "Baby Maxfield" into the world!!!

As you've probably already figured out from previous posts on my blog -- a favorite family tradition in our family is going out together to eat -- all of us or at least as many as possible! Ha! We have a great time and always enjoy a nice meal together as family and friends. For birthdays you get to choose the restaurant - and since Erika's birthday is next week on the 23rd (and she has not had a birthday in SC since 2003) she chose the meeting place last night for her birthday celebration and for their "going away" dinner. The place was LHOP (Lugoff House of Pizza), one of her favorites. We had a crowd and it was a fun time.

After a fun meal we headed home for some cheesecake for Erika's birthday. Joey played the guitar and we sang "Happy Birthday" to Erika. Everyone seemed to have a good time and I tried hard not to think about the morning when the loaded-down Honda would drive away with my dear daughter and son-in-law.

This morning brought more fun when Ginger and the boys stopped by on the way to take Spencer to school so they could say good-bye and wish Jack and Erika a safe trip. Spencer, Andrew, and Carson looked so cute! They smiled and had their picture taken with Jack so that we could see how much they've grown the next time they're together with Jack and Erika. They are so sweet and so special. Erika has really enjoyed the time she's spent with them this summer. (And it's been good practice getting ready for the baby!)

Have a safe trip, kids, and make lots of joyous memories on your journey home...I love you so much and look forward to our next reunion! May the Lord's blessings be with you until we meet again... Love forever, Mom :)